Initial Post-Draft Depth Chart for the Detroit Lions

With the 2013 NFL draft wrapped up and most of the free-agent market settled, we can turn to the Detroit Lions depth chart with some clarity.

There are a few positions where the starter will be a guess, so we've included an explanation. Others will only include the names listed in the order of priority because we already know who the starter is.

But you know I couldn't resist adding some of my thoughts anyways.

So click through to find out who will be on the field when the Lions kick off against the Minnesota Vikings.

Running Backs

Reggie Bush will ultimately get the nod over Mikel Leshoure due to his explosiveness in the passing game. Scott Linehan and Stafford are going to enjoy the dumpoff option that he provides.

Leshoure and Joique Bell will continue to split the ball-pounding activities. Bell averaged 5.0 yards per carry, but Leshoure will be given the benefit of the doubt due to hiss lofty draft status and assumed 100-percent health this year.

Left Tackle

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1. Riley Reiff

2. Jason Fox

3. Corey Hilliard

Riley Reiff survived the draft and free agency, meaning that no one will his status as the starting left tackle. There is some concern about whether he can handle the job, but the Lions’ lack of moves here suggests they have the requisite faith.

As for the backup, Jason Fox or Corey Hilliard could play there in a pinch. Hilliard has gained more experience due to his health and versatility.

Center

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1. Dominic Raiola

2. Dylan Gandy

There will be at least one more year of Dominic Raiola. That might not seem to be a good thing, but with so much change along the offensive line, he’ll provide a steady presence for everyone to lean on.

Dylan Gandy won’t be the replacement when Raiola leaves, so there isn’t any hope of him unseating the veteran.

Defensive Tackles

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1. Ndamukong Suh

2. Nick Fairley

3. C.J. Mosley

4. Ogemdi Nwagbuo

This shouldn’t come as a surprise. Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley have a chance to be the most dominating inside force in the league. And it appears that Fairley understands that, considering the news leaking out of Detroit.

The loss of Sammie Hill hurts, but C.J. Mosley is an underrated offseason pickup that will pay immediate dividends. Ogemdi Nwagbuo is a bit of a wild card at this point.

Middle Linebacker

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1. Stephen Tulloch

2. Travis Lewis

Last year’s leading tackler isn’t going anywhere. Stephen Tulloch is back to hold down the middle of the defense. Hopefully, he’ll be able to make plenty of plays behind the talented defensive tackles.

Behind him, Travis Lewis and rookie Brandon Hepburn will battle for backup minutes. Lewis gets the edge thanks to his year in the system, but both should contribute on special teams.